It is with both a heavy heart and profound gratitude that I now reflect on Ana-Karina’s incredible influence on my life. Her kindness, wisdom, and unwavering belief in me have shaped my path in ways that I will never be able to fully articulate. She was not only a brilliant scholar and teacher, but a rare and cherished friend.

I met her in 2002, when I enrolled for an MA in the 20 th American and British Literature at Lucian Blaga University of Sibiu. Little did I realize at the time that I was stepping into the presence of someone who would greatly contribute to my academic enterprises years later on. With her elegant demeanor, generous smile, and quiet but powerful presence, she effortlessly conveyed knowledge with a consuming passion that went beyond the books we studied for the programme. Her classes were not just a place of learning, but also was a space of trust, where ideas flourished, and where I, as her student, was given the freedom to grow and explore my academic potential.

After finishing my MA degree, we stayed in touch throughout the years. Ana-Karina’s extraordinary mentorship and friendship were a quiet but constant reassurance that no matter where life took me, she would be there for me. If I ever needed a letter of recommendation, she would wholeheartedly send me one. I will always remember the affectionate and proud way she looked at me when I handed her the book I wrote as a result of my PhD research, warmly thanking her for having played a great part in its successful completion. She accepted it, somehow startled by my emotional effusion, and smiling at me with such grace and modesty!

I also had the opportunity to work by Karina’s side for ABC’s various editing and administrative tasks for several years. I was in awe at her strong commitment to excellence and ability to tackle the enormous workload impeccably. However, despite her extremely hectic schedule, she would take the time to remind me that there were things worth celebrating such as the snowdrops emerging from the ground in the depths of winter. After that gentle nudge, I have never let another beginning of year pass by without checking my garden for snowdrops. My fondest thoughts will indubitably go her way at the sight of them.

This year again a few snowdrops have shyly emerged from the frozen snow in my garden, my dearest Karina! I will forever be deeply indebted to you for the lessons you imparted not just about literature, but about hard work, kindness, resilience, and the importance of seeing the beauty in the world, even when it may feel impossible to do so.

Dana Vasiloiu, Independent Scholar